About this wine
Hokushin Chardonnay is Château Mercian's flagship terroir-driven white wine, made from Chardonnay grown on both banks of the Chikuma River in the Hokushin district of northern Nagano Prefecture (Suzaka City, Takayama Village, and Nagano City). Grapes from the sandy-gravel right bank contribute freshness and structure, while the clay-rich left bank lends tropical elegance; the two are fermented separately by plot and carefully blended. Fermentation takes place at 18-21°C over roughly two weeks, followed by around six months of aging in French oak barrels. The result is a bright, complex Chardonnay with tropical and citrus fruit, well-integrated oak, and a mineral, long finish that has repeatedly earned international medals.
A great introduction to premium Japanese Chardonnay — approachable tropical fruit character balanced by refined, well-integrated oak.
Sommelier's Note
"One of Japan's benchmark Chardonnays — the interplay between the right bank's freshness and the left bank's tropical richness makes this a wine every Japanese-wine drinker should try at least once."
Food Pairings
Pairs beautifully with buttery sautéed chicken thigh, tempura of kuruma shrimp, and creamy pasta topped with crispy small fish. Also excellent with grilled white fish, scallop carpaccio, and lightly seasoned poultry.
When to drink it
Ideal for celebratory dinners and sophisticated gatherings, or as a gift for wine enthusiasts who appreciate terroir-driven Japanese Chardonnay.
Specs
- Grape Varieties
- Chardonnay
- Style
- White
- Alcohol
- 12.5
- Price Range
- ¥2,800-3,300
Terroir & Winemaking
Chardonnay grown on VSP-trellised vineyards on both banks of the Chikuma River in the Hokushin district. Fermented separately by plot at 18-21°C for about two weeks, then aged roughly six months in French oak barrels before blending sandy-gravel right-bank and clay left-bank lots.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does Hokushin Chardonnay taste like?
- It shows ripe tropical fruit (starfruit, mango, melon) and citrus zest with well-integrated oak, a creamy texture, and a long, mineral-driven finish.
- What food pairs best with this wine?
- Buttery sautéed chicken, shrimp tempura, and creamy pasta dishes pair well, as do delicate Japanese dishes with dashi-based seasoning.
- How is Hokushin Chardonnay made?
- Grapes from the sandy right bank and clay left bank of the Chikuma River are fermented separately by plot at 18-21°C, then blended and aged about six months in French oak barrels.
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シャトー・メルシャン 椀子メルロー
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シャトー・メルシャン 椀子ワイナリー ソーヴィニヨン・ブラン
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WhiteSauvignon Blanc
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シャトー・メルシャン 椀子シラー
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RedSyrah
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北信カベルネ・ソーヴィニヨン
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RedCabernet Sauvignon
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